LAS VEGAS — Highs are limited to the middle and upper 90s today, marking the first day in over a month without triple digit heat. The noticeable monsoon humidity will fuel pop-up downpours with lightning, gusty winds, and the potential for localized flooding, although some areas will miss out on the rain. Thunderstorm chances are pegged at 50% in Las Vegas and Southern Nevada this afternoon, tonight, and Wednesday morning. Lows tonight fall to the upper 70s and low 80s. A trend toward sunshine Wednesday afternoon should allow highs to return to 101°.
Wildfire smoke from the York Fire in the Mojave National Preserve near the Nevada and California state line may not be as bad today, but air quality has measured "hazardous" at times the last couple days, so we'll continue to monitor the situation.
A drier pattern is expected Thursday through the weekend, with sunshine, lower humidity, and highs between 104° and 107°. The first day of school in Clark County on Monday looks toasty, with upper 80s in the morning and highs near 108° by the final afternoon bell.
To beat the heat later this week, shift outdoor activities before 10:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m. to avoid the direct sun and warmest temperatures. When outside, remember to drink plenty of water, seek shade, and wear lightweight, light-colored clothing with a hat and sunscreen. Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol. Watch those vulnerable to intense heat, including young kids, the elderly, and people with health issues or medication that makes them prone to heat illness. Keep an eye on pets and make sure they have fresh water and aren't overexerting themselves. The UV index remains very high to extreme, so remember to use sunscreen and keep a hat handy; a sunburn can happen in just 10-15 minutes this time of year.
